[Margaret Pilkington]

My Ma had shingles many years ago......she had the post shingles pain long after the lesions had gone......she got relief by putting neat lavender oil on the area.
Now Sue, this might be alright for the inner thigh area, but I would be a bit hesitiant to put it on your sixpence(Ethel. as you call it).
Tea bags are another thing that are very soothing for herpetic discomfort.....used ones, cooled in the fridge - then discarded after use.(they should be safe on your hairy mary too)